Domain name search

The simplest way to check whether a domain name is available, is to go directly to the registrar concerned.

UK names

The UK's official registrar for domain names is Nominet. They provide a 'whois' on line lookup service. To check the ownership if a particular name, go to www.nominet.org.uk (opens in a new window).

Nominet manage the following second level domains.

  • .co.uk for commercial enterprises
  • .me.uk for personal domains
  • .org.uk for non-commercial organisations
  • .ltd and .plc for registered company names only
  • .net.uk for Internet Service Providers
  • .sch.uk for schools

International names

International names, ending .com .org or .net are registered by Internic
Their whois service can be found at www.internic.com/whois.html (opens in a new window).

European Union names

The top level domain .eu is now available for registration. Names are managed by EURid. (opens in a new window).

© 2004 - 2006 John Pye Consulting Ltd.
Providing affordable and accessible web site design, web site audit, Internet consultancy and internet marketing advice for small businesses in Stamford. Oakham, Uppingham, Peterborough and the surrounding districts in East Anglia, Lincolnshire, Rutland, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and East Midlands.